Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Chesapeake, VA: $66,613 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Chesapeake, VA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $66,613 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Chesapeake's local price level (BEA RPP 103.2 — 3% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $64,547 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($101,167) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Pursuing a career as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Chesapeake, Virginia, offers new graduates a promising opportunity in a growing field. In 2026, starting positions are projected to offer salaries around $66,613, significantly lower than the city's median annual salary of $101,167. However, these initial earnings can realistically increase as new techs gain experience and skills; many can anticipate moving up to the $86,750 mark within the first few years. Consequently, while the entry-level pay may pose challenges, the trajectory toward the median salary is relatively achievable, suggesting that Chesapeake remains a viable market for recent graduates entering the MRI sector.
About the Chesapeake Market
Salary estimated from Virginia average ($80,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Chesapeake
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Chesapeake
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Chesapeake, VA typically start between $66,613 and $86,750 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $78,816 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $101,167 — 0.88% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Virginia of $6,500 represents just 9.76% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($66,613/year) in Chesapeake. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates for JRCERT-accredited post-primary MRI certificate programs. Most MRI technologists first complete a radiography program, then add an MRI certificate. Tuition-only averages; actual costs vary by institution.
MRI Tech Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Chesapeake
- 1Research the Chesapeake market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $66,613 to $86,750, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the radiologic technology field — employers in VA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Chesapeake, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Chesapeake for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Chesapeake's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Compensation Range
The magnetic resonance imaging technologist wage spread in Chesapeake is $78,816 ( 118.32%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $66,613, experienced hygienists can earn up to $145,429.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$47,091
2025 BLS Actual
$63,423
2026 Current Est.
$66,613
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Chesapeake (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $47,091 | Actual |
| 2020 | $48,684 | Actual |
| 2021 | $54,419 | Actual |
| 2022 | $55,726 | Actual |
| 2023 | $56,592 | Actual |
| 2024 | $57,396 | Actual |
| 2025 | $63,423 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $66,613 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $69,964 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Chesapeake, VA grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $47,091 in 2019 to $63,423 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $69,964. New graduates entering the Chesapeake job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Chesapeake metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 5.03% CAGR derived from 7-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your radiologic technology Career in Chesapeake
Employers in Chesapeake eager to recruit entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists include local hospital systems that often hire experienced radiologic technologists and provide opportunities for cross-training into MRI roles. Additionally, outpatient MRI facilities frequently seek pre-credentialed MRI techs, sometimes offering enticing sign-on bonuses. For new hires looking to maximize their earning potential, achieving additional credentials such as the ARRT(MR) post-primary certification or the ARMRIT credential can significantly enhance starting pay in Virginia. Within the first few years of entering the profession, techs can expect to see their salaries reflect the increasing demand for MRI specialists; positions focusing on cardiac MRI and prostate mpMRI are particularly lucrative. With the continued introduction of advanced imaging technologies, including 3T and even 7T scanners, new graduates will find ample opportunities to expand their skill sets and pursue higher-paying roles in this evolving field.
More salary data for Chesapeake, VA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Chesapeake in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Chesapeake?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Chesapeake?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Chesapeake?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Virginia?
Related Pages
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Written by Carmen Torres, R.T. (R)(MR)
Career Analyst
Carmen has 10 years of experience as an MRI technologist. She specializes in pediatric imaging at a regional hospital. Carmen contributes to various industry publications.
Methodology & Data Source
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new radiologic technology graduates. A 5.03% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Chesapeake. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Chesapeake is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.03%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for magnetic resonance imaging technologists (SOC 29-2035).
Compiled and verified by Carmen Torres, R.T. (R)(MR), a licensed magnetic resonance imaging technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov